Westlife fans left standing at Glasgow gig after seating issues

Thousands of Westlife fans who paid to be seated at the Glasgow leg of their tour last night were left standing.

The SSE Hydro posted on Facebook last night only a matter of minutes before the doors were due to open to let fans know there was an issue with transporting the seats to the venue, meaning those that were due to be front row and in the ground level seating area were left to stand.

Hundreds of fans took to social media to address the situation, which they described as an 'absolute disgrace'.

Many fans were advised by staff at the Hydro that once they entered the venue, they could no longer apply for a refund - meaning they had to make the decision to enter and stand or leave and apply for a refund from outside.

Photos were posted on social media to show excessive queues outside the venue that meant the support act was cancelled.

One fan, who's asked to not be named, said:

"I treated myself to a 4th row seat, as I've never been that close at a westlife concert. I paid £102 for it, which is expensive, but as they are my favourite band, I paid it. I drove through from Edinburgh for it.

"After getting inside, I was then made aware that there were no seats on the floor level, and it was going to be all standing. I wasn't happy about that, especially as I was really looking forward to being so close to the stage. The fact that people who had paid a lot less for their tickets nearer the back of the floor level, would be able to get to the front, and the ones who should've been guaranteed front row or the likes, would be losing out. It's not fair at all."

The SSE Hydro post stated: "If you are unable to stand or prefer not to, you will be entitled to a full refund from your original point of purchase.

"Expected door opening time is between 1900-1945.

"Westlife are delighted to be back in Glasgow and are very much looking forward to what will be a great night.

"On behalf of the promoter of the event we apologise for any frustration or disappointment this may cause and appreciate your understanding."

Fans were told last night that the problem should not affect future gigs.

A spokesperson from SSE Hydro said: "On Tuesday 28 May Westlife’s Twenty Tour at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro suffered seating configuration adjustments due to the delay of production elements of the Twenty Tour arriving at the arena.

"This is a rare and isolated incident. The remainder of the Twenty Tour at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro and across the U.K. will not be subject to any further seating issues. Westlife are committed to delivering an unmissable show for their dedicated fans."